USS Enterprise Model To Release in 2012

Next year, Polar Lights will produce two editions of an original series USS Enterprise NCC-1701 plastic model kit.

The USS Enterprise will be a 1:350 scale model, over thirty-two inches long, detailed after the 11′ filming model used in the filming of the original series.

“We’ve been getting requests for this kit virtually since the day we started producing models,” said Tom Lowe, Round 2 president. “We’re very excited to begin development of the kit that so many Star Trek modeling fans have been clamoring for.”

According to the Round 2 press release, the kit is being offered in two editions. “The standard release of the kit will include parts to create the ‘production version’ of the ship as it appeared in the classic Star Trek television show.

“A limited Premiere Edition of the kit will be available directly from Round 2 on a pre-order basis. The Premiere Edition kit includes all parts included in the regular edition, as well as parts to make the 1st and 2nd Pilot versions of the ship as depicted in two early episodes of the television show. The Premiere Edition will be limited to 1,701 pieces and will include a serial numbered certificate of authenticity as well as special commemorative packaging. Polar Lights will also be developing a separate accessory pack for both versions of the kits that will include surface weathering decals, photo-etched parts and a light kit.”

Fans who pre-order the Premiere Edition kit will also be enrolled in the 1701 club, where they will receive a limited-edition t-shirt and exclusive development updates by email, which will include interviews and never-before-seen photos of the original filming model. This will be the only place where development updates will be reported, so club members will be the first to obtain information regarding progress on the model.

Gary Kerr, a lifelong Star Trek historian, will be assisting Round 2 with development. “Gary’s involvement in the new kit design has been a tremendous asset,” said Jamie Hood, brand manager of Polar Lights. “His extensive knowledge has allowed us to add intimate details to the model. This kit will be the most accurate representation of the ship produced since the original filming model.”

The standard release kit will be available in hobby shops and specialty stores, and the Premiere Edition kit can be pre-ordered through round2models.com. Click the thumbnail for a high-res image of the USS Enterprise.